Degradation und mechanical behavior of nanofiber membranes for timed release of antibacterial additives

Abstract Ultrafine membranes produced via electrospinning exhibit multidirectional strength and elasticity. In contrast to compact polymer films or coatings, they also have an exceptional surface-to-volume ratio, which makes them attractive carrier structures for many biomedical applications, also with regard to the release of bioactive substances. Within the scope of an orientation study we investigated the mechanical properties of biodegradable nanofibrous carrier materials using tensile specimens made of nanoparticle loaded polydioxanone (PDO), polylactide (PLA), polyglycolide (PGA) and polybutylene succinate (PBS). Mass loss and tensile strength as well as pH changes during incubation at 37°C in an unbuffered isotonic saline solution with 10% ethanol were examined within defined time periods up to 33 days. Initial tests with several antibacterial additives, especially TiO 2 and Ag nanoparticles and octenidine were performed.